Race leaves you feeling like a winner




On pristine trails through oak-studded woodlands, on treelined streets past ranches and horse properties, this was not your Boston or New York marathon.

It was better.

The Great Race of Agoura completed its 29th running last Saturday with more than 6,300 athletes from the United States and abroad.

What began in 1986 as a simple race through the streets of Agoura Hills has become a destination of choice for runners looking for a top-notch jaunt. Today it’s one of the largest running events in the Los Angeles area and, most importantly for many, the race organizers continue to donate to Las Virgenes and Oak Park schools.

On March 22, a cool, calm day that was perfect for running, the male and female athletes competed in four events: two half-marathons, a 10K and a 5K. The Old Agoura 10K—which played out on a road course adjacent to scenic Cheeseboro Canyon—has been recognized by Runner’s World magazine as one of the top 10Ks in America.

A pair of 1-mile fun runs were offered to the kids and families in the area because, despite its growth, the Great Race still bills itself as a community-based event. After the race, hordes of spectators and competitors gathered at Chumash Park for some post-race feasting, celebrating and socializing.

If running is a zen sport, then what do you call the adrenalinepacked Great Race of Agoura?

But it wasn’t a complete walk in the park.

A few members of the Agoura Hills/Calabasas Community Center complained when their gym was closed for several days for runner registration.

But from start to finish the race was mostly handled well.

Next year will be the race’s 30th anniversary and a good time to test your running skill if you haven’t already. Medals are awarded to multiple age groups and everyone leaves feeling like a winner.

Few events in the community are as popular or have lasted as long as the Great Race of Agoura.

Go just once and see why.



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